FAQ

Please review these FAQs. They should answer most of your questions; however, feel free to contact us by phone or email with any further questions you may have.

Are gliders safe?

Gliders are very safe. In fact, gliders are so safe that the FAA permits 14-year-olds to fly them solo.

Does the pilot have a license?

Yes, your pilot is certified through the FAA, just like an airline pilot, and is required to complete a flight review every two years. Your pilot also holds a commercial rating–an advanced rating required by the FAA to carry passengers for hire.

How does the pilot control the glider?

Gliders have exactly the same flight controls as airplanes. Your pilot will explain all the flight controls and instruments to you at the beginning of your flight if you’re interested–just ask.

Will the pilot let me fly?

If you ask, the pilot may allow you to fly while gliding.

Will the pilot do aerobatics?

No. Aerobatics have to be performed in a special aerobatic glider, and both the pilot and passenger must wear parachutes as required by the FAA.

Do you fly in harsh weather?

We don’t fly in rain or other bad weather. Fortunately, the weather in the Coachella Valley is so good that there are only a few days of the year that we stay on the ground.

The weather in the valley is much different from that of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego counties. It may be foggy and wet elsewhere, but it’s usually sunny and warm in the valley with excellent visibility.

During periods of adverse weather, your pilot may delay or cancel flight activities. He is responsible for the safety of all and is the final authority.

What will I see?

Palms to Pines Gliding rides feature incredible views of the entire Coachella Valley including the San Jacinto and San Gorgonio mountains in the west to the Salton Sea in the east. From Joshua Tree National Monument in the north to rugged Toro Peak and the Santa Rosa Mountains in the south, you’ll see it all.

On our longer rides, which go to higher altitudes, it’s not uncommon to see Catalina and San Clemente islands, Mount Baldy, Saddleback Mountain, Palomar Mountain, and well into San Diego County. Visibility aloft is often in excess of 100 miles! Your pilot will point out landmarks and points of interest. Feel free to ask questions; your pilot enjoys sharing the beauty of flight.

Can I take pictures?

Yes, you may bring your cell phone or small camera with you on your flight, but please don’t get so involved in photography that you miss out on the joy of flying!

What should I wear/bring?

It’s best to wear loose-fitting comfortable clothes and soft shoes (No boots or high heels, please.). In addition, be sure to bring the following items:

A soft tennis or sailing hat

Good sunglasses

Sunscreen

A light jacket

Help yourself to the chilled bottled water, hot coffee and tea available in the comfortable and air-conditioned Bermuda Dunes Airport terminal building. There are also vending machines with soft drinks and snacks. A wide variety of restaurants, coffee shops, convenience stores and gas stations are located within 2 miles of the airport.

Is there a passenger age limit?

We’ve given rides to people from 10 to nearly 100. Minors must be accompanied to boarding by a parent or legal guardian. We recommend a minimum age of 12 as younger children may feel heightened levels of anxiety.

Is there a passenger size or weight limit?

Yes. Passengers must be 200 pounds or less. The maximum height is 75 inches.